Archive · 5 Dec 2025
Myanmar Military Regime Holds Controversial Elections
Myanmar's military regime is holding elections in three phases starting at the end of December.
The elections are seen as a sham because the military controls the process and has deregistered opposition parties.
The National Unity Government in exile and international supporters are calling on the world to denounce the elections.
Neighbouring countries are concerned about stability and may engage with the regime despite the controversial elections.
The elections are unlikely to bring significant change but could potentially lead to a diffusion of power within the military.
The National Unity Government needs to engage with this reality to remain relevant.
Myanmar's military regime will hold elections in three phases starting December 28, 2024, and concluding in January 2025.
The elections are widely seen as a sham, with the military controlling the process and deregistering opposition parties.
The National Unity Government in exile and international supporters are calling on the world to denounce the elections.
Neighbouring countries are concerned about stability and may engage with the regime despite the controversial elections.
The elections are unlikely to bring significant change but could potentially lead to a diffusion of power within the military.
- Who
- Myanmar's military regime and the National Unity Government in exile
- What
- Controversial elections held by the military regime
- When
- Starting December 28, 2024, concluding in January 2025
- Where
- Myanmar, limited to 274 townships
- Why
- To gain legitimacy, demonstrate authority, and consolidate power
- Election Dates
- December 28, 2024 to January 2025
- Election Phases
- Three phases
- Townships Included
- 274 out of 330
- Deregistered Parties
- Multiple, including Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy
- ASEAN Stance
- Insists on cessation of violence and inclusive political dialogue before elections
- International Observers
- Not invited by the National Unity Government; ASEAN rebuffed invitation
- Potential Observers
- Russia, Belarus, possibly some ASEAN member states
- Current Military Leader
- Commander-in-Chief Min Aung Hlaing